The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

beg

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Dictionary definition of beg

To make a plea or earnest request for something, typically in a humble or desperate manner.
"The stray dog would beg for scraps outside the restaurant."

Detailed meaning of beg

When someone begs, they implore or ask fervently for assistance, mercy, forgiveness, or a favor. It often involves expressing a deep need or desire for something, whether it be material, emotional, or abstract. Begging can take various forms, such as pleading with words, gestures, or even through written communication. The intention behind begging is to evoke sympathy, compassion, or empathy from the person being addressed, in the hopes of receiving the requested outcome. It is a vulnerable and sometimes uncomfortable action, driven by a sense of helplessness or desperation. Begging can be seen in situations where basic needs are not met, when seeking forgiveness, or when requesting assistance in dire circumstances. Ultimately, the act of begging serves as a plea for kindness, mercy, or support in times of need.

Example sentences containing beg

1. She refused to beg for forgiveness, even though she knew she was wrong.
2. The child would often beg his parents for a new toy.
3. He had no choice but to beg for help when he found himself stranded.
4. The homeless man would beg for money on the street corner.
5. Despite his pride, he had to swallow it and beg for a loan from his friend.
6. The actor would beg the director for another chance to audition.

History and etymology of beg

The verb 'beg' has a centuries-old etymology that reveals its origins in Old English. It comes from the Old English word 'béogan,' which meant 'to bow' or 'to bend.' Over time, the meaning of 'béogan' evolved to encompass the idea of bending or bowing in a submissive or humble manner, especially in the context of pleading or making a request. This transformation reflects the physical act of lowering oneself in a humble gesture when seeking something, akin to begging. As the English language developed, 'béogan' became 'beg,' retaining the sense of making a plea or earnest request, often accompanied by a display of humility or desperation. Therefore, the etymology of 'beg' underscores its historical association with the act of humbly imploring or beseeching for something.

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Further usage examples of beg

1. The desperate mother would beg the doctor to save her child's life.
2. She had to swallow her pride and beg her boss for her job back.
3. The politician would beg for votes during his campaign speeches.
4. The street performer would beg the crowd for applause after his act.
5. He would beg his professor for an extension on his assignment.
6. The student would beg her parents to let her go on the school trip.
7. The artist would beg the gallery owner to showcase her work.
8. The stranded hiker had to beg a passing hiker for directions.
9. The prisoner would beg the judge for leniency during his sentencing.
10. The woman would beg her husband to attend couple's therapy.
11. The refugee would beg for shelter and safety in a foreign land.
12. The thief would beg the store owner not to call the police.
13. The injured athlete would beg the coach to let him play in the game.
14. She'll beg for forgiveness after realizing her mistake.
15. Kids often beg parents for a new toy or game.
16. People in need sometimes beg for food or money.
17. In films, heroes often beg villains for mercy.
18. He’ll beg her to stay when she packs her bags.
19. Animals, with eyes wide, beg for a morsel.
20. Prisoners may beg for freedom, voices trembling.
21. In winter, birds sometimes beg for some seeds.
22. At the altar, he'll beg for her hand.
23. “Please,” she’ll beg, eyes filled with hope.
24. They beg for change, hands out, heads low.